Introduction
A pilot reported a sudden loss of engine power shortly after leveling off at an altitude of approximately 1,000 feet MSL. The power loss was described as smooth and rapid, prompting the pilot to attempt a forced landing.
The Incident
During the subsequent forced landing roll-out, the aircraft nosed over onto its back. The pilot did not use carburetor heat prior to the loss of power or during restart attempts.
Investigation
Post-accident investigation disclosed no evidence of any engine component malfunction or failure. The ambient temperature was about 57°F and the dew point was about 51°F. According to the carburetor icing curve, the aircraft would have encountered serious carburetor icing in cruise or climb power settings under those conditions.
Conditions
The weather conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to carburetor icing, but the pilot did not apply carburetor heat. The absence of mechanical issues suggests that carburetor icing was likely responsible for the power loss.